How to Plan an Elopement at Moraine Lake
Trying to figure out how to elope at Moraine Lake? Feeling like you are hitting a bunch of hurdles to make it happen? Lets fix that! Here are 5 laid-back steps to help you make it happen:
The 5 steps in this post:
1. Choose the Perfect Date & Time
Consider the Season: Moraine Lake is a gem, but it’s a seasonal one. The road leading to this paradise is open from early June (sometimes Late May) to mid-October. To play it safe, aim for a date between mid-June and early October. Mother Nature can be unpredictable, so this ensures you won’t miss out on being able to access your dream elopement destination.
Time of Day: I may be biased as a Moraine Lake Photographer but I really love sunrise. It truly is when the lake is at its absolute best. If that doesn’t work for you (and perhaps your guests/vendors) try and aim for sunset! But really, anytime of day will be fine.
2. Navigate Transportation
Unless you’re cozying up at Moraine Lake Lodge, private vehicles aren’t an option and you must book a shuttle.
But don’t worry! I will help you navigate the shuttle system. There are many public shuttles but I recommend booking a private shuttle or at least a semi-private shuttle like Fairview Limousine for something as special as your elopement!
Don’t forget to plan for your guests and vendors – you’ll need your officiant, photographer, and videographer to be accounted for when booking your seats!
All your shuttle options can be found here: Ultimate Guide to Moraine Lake Shuttle Options
3. Book your Accommodations
Moraine Lake Lodge: There is accommodation right at the shoreline of Moraine Lake (and would remove your need for shuttles). But its important to know a few things about Moraine Lake Lodge: it’s expensive and very difficult to get a booking. It’s also very difficult for hair and makeup to get to the lodge without paying lots of travel fees.
So what are your other options?
Lake Louise Village: There are also several nice hotels in the village of Lake Louise. These hotels would be the next closest option to Moraine Lake and some of them have their own shuttle system that picks up right from your hotels front door!
Banff & Canmore: I wouldn’t shy away from exploring hotels in Banff and Canmore. They are often far cheaper and closer to lots of other activities and attractions for your other days in the area! Banff is a 40 minute and Canmore is a 60 minute drive from the shuttle pick up spot in Lake Louise. If you book a completely private shuttle you can even have them pick you up from Banff or Canmore!
4. Craft Your Timeline
Are you stressing over logistics? Your experienced photographer (me!) can help you create a timeline that flows seamlessly.
From getting ready, to saying “I do” against the backdrop of Moraine Lake, and even planning the after-elopement celebration… I’ve got you covered. Trust my expertise to make sure you’re back in time for a delightful dinner (or breakfast if you choose sunrise!) at a local gem. Check out my favorite post-elopement dinner venues in Banff & Canmore for Inspiration!
5. Book your Vendors to make it happen
Officiant & Legalities:
If you are wanting to legally get married Alberta requires an officiant appointed within its borders and two witnesses to make your union official. No worries if your guest list is intimate – your photographer can be one witness, and if you opt for a videographer, they’ve got witness duty covered. If you don’t have any other guests there are options to hire someone to tag along and be a witness! Need more info on how this works? Check out my Guide to legally get married in Banff.
Photographer:
With 10 years of experience photographing Elopements at Moraine Lake I know all the special spots to avoid the tourists and make your photos everything you ever dreamed of! I know all the exact rocks you should stand on for the perfect view of that bright blue water and the cute forested shoreline spots for cozy pictures of you two cuddling in the trees!
Videographer:
Many eloping couples choose to have a videographer so they can share this magical moment with friends and family later on! Having a video of your ceremony can bring you back to the moment and remember those vows you said to eachother. If this is something that interests you I have photo & video packages for Moraine Lake Elopements!
Hair and Make up:
There are so many fantastic local artists that will come to your hotel and get you all prepped for the day! If you are staying at Moraine Lake Lodge you will need to pick them up from a meetup point in Lake Louise (recommended) or arrange a shuttle for them. If you are getting ready in Banff or Canmore they will come right to your hotel – hot tip: Hire Local to avoid travel fees!
Florals:
The are many local florist shops to choose from in both Banff and Canmore! You can pick up the florals the day before, or just give me a heads up and if time/logisitic allow, I’ll be happy to pick them up for you!
You can find all your local vendor needs in my Vendor Guide.
Bonus Step: Have a Blast!
Amidst all the planning, don’t forget the most crucial step – have fun! Revel in the magic of exchanging vows in one of the world’s most iconic locations. After all, it’s your day, your love, and your adventure at Moraine Lake. Embrace every moment and savor the joy of beginning your forever surrounded by nature’s grandeur. Cheers to your elopement adventure!
Want to explore some other locations in Banff to Elope?
Check out these beautiful locations to Elope in Banff.